HISTORY OF DOGSProfessor Julie-Marie Strange explores the history of man’s best friend in Britain – from the origins of dog biscuits to veterinary care
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1DOG BREED TRENDS AREN’T A RECENT PHENOMENON
Throughout history, specific dog breeds have been associated with particular social groups. In the 19th century, terriers were popular among the working classes; Manchester terriers (pictured below) were favoured by working-class men, partly to keep vermin at bay but also for companionship.
Such trends stretch back to the Middle Ages. Medieval artworks depicted aristocratic women with greyhound-type dogs, understood as a symbol of privilege. And in the 18th century, pugs became popular among wealthy women. Interest in Borzois boomed at the end of the 19th century, partly because of a burgeoning fascination with Russian and eastern European culture in western societies.
In the contemporary world, cultural trends continue to influence dog breed preferences. For example, the popularity of husky dogs was boosted globally by their appearances in the hit television series Game of Thrones. However, caring for such animals can be challenging so, sadly, such surges in popularity tend to be followed by spikes in arrivals of such popular breeds at animal rescue centres.
2AN ELECTRICIAN FROM OHIO INVENTED DOG BISCUITS
During the 17th and 18th centuries, pet dogs were commonly fed leftover human food, including meat. However, the 19th century saw a significant shift as the idea of keeping dogs just for companionship gained in popularity. This trend triggered a surge in the provision of dog-specific services and products.
Among those who profited from this new market was James Spratt, an electrician from Ohio. While watching sailors sharing cake scraps with dogs on a London dockside, he recognised a unique opportunity. And in 1860, he patented his invention, introducing the world to Spratt’s dog biscuits and cakes – treats that offered an alternative to food scraps.
As time passed, Spratt’s dog biscuits exploded in popularity, largely thanks to extensive advertising in newspapers and magazines. The dog show promoter Charles Cruft,
